Noel Fielding has revealed that his Great British Bake Off co-host Alison Hammond broke a crucial rule on the programme after "learning the hard way." The pair have fronted the Channel 4 show together since Alison stepped into the presenting role from Matt Lucas in 2023.
By then, Noel was already a seasoned presenter with six series of the beloved show under his belt, and there is one vital rule that everyone on set must stick to. The baking programme, famed for its vibrant displays, mouth-watering baked goods and legendary tent, is a visual treat. However, while the kitchen appears packed with tempting cakes ready for nibbling, most of it is completely forbidden, according to Noel.
The Golden Rule on the Bake Off Set
Journalist Boudicca Fox Leonard visited the renowned tent in Welford Park, Berkshire, to reveal the secrets behind the iconic programme which launched in 2010. There is one golden rule which can never be broken on the Bake Off set. Both the cast and crew are firmly told: "Don't eat the displays." This is despite the set appearing "as delectable as cricket cream tea" according to the journalist.
She said Noel, 53, reiterated this warning while she was "eyeing up the set dressing of sponge fingers, party rings and jars of marshmallows." The presenter explained: "They are not to be touched. Alison found that out the hard way."
Why the Food Isn't Edible
Much of the food on show isn't even safe to eat, with certain items crafted from polystyrene. Others have been sitting around for weeks, months or even years and are purely for decoration, with the presenter warning against sampling the props.
When asked about whether some delicious-looking hot cross buns on a nearby table were genuine, Noel offered a compelling explanation for avoiding them: "They are real. But feel them – they're like rock. You'd need gnashers like a nutcracker to eat them."
Even the edible props need protecting once cameras stop rolling. A crew member revealed to the reporter: "We have to put all the real stuff away at night because the squirrels come and eat it otherwise."
Alison Hammond's Bake Off Journey
Alison, who has fronted the show for the past three Bake Off series, swiftly won over the judges, bakers and audiences with her bubbly character. The This Morning presenter injected fresh enthusiasm into the Bake Off tent during her first series.
Despite being a newcomer to the legendary Bake Off franchise, Alison had plenty of experience with culinary television. She's featured on Celebrity MasterChef and presented cookery sections on daytime shows.
Alison did confess to feeling anxious about becoming part of such a cherished programme. Upon landing the Bake Off role, she said: "It's a massive privilege to be part of an iconic show." Beyond Bake Off and This Morning, Alison has also taken part in several reality shows, including I'm A Celeb and Strictly Come Dancing.
